On August 8th, 1960, 16-year-old Brian Hyland went to number 1 on the U.S. Singles Chart with the catchy tune ‘Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini.’ Can you hum the song’s memorable chorus melody?
Brian Hyland performed the song on ‘Dick Clark’s Saturday Night Beechnut Show.’ He sits on a stool, snapping along to the beat. Brian poses as a lifeguard while a small girl hides in a beach changing locker.
The background vocals are provided by a mother sitting in a rocking chair, fully clothed in black. The little girl eventually emerges, swims in fake waves, and displays the famous bikini style.
The trio of performers act out the lyrics, ‘It was an itsy bitsy teenie weenie yellow polka dot bikini. That she wore for the first time today. An itsy bitsy teenie weenie yellow polka dot bikini, so in the locker, she wanted to stay.’
Hyland’s version sold over a million copies and became a worldwide hit. It was adapted into French and German versions, reaching number one on the national charts in both languages.
Brian Hyland was a teen star who defined ‘Bubblegum Pop.’ He went on to release several country-influenced albums. His infectious song took over America when it hit number 1.Dick Clark introduced Brian and his song, saying, ‘Depending on how you look at it, the hottest or coolest song in the country right now!’ The crowd goes wild for Brian, who dances around near the song’s end, and even kicks a beach ball out into the crowd!